What would you think of using a facial product that improves the skin? That’s great, right? How about one that also cuts some steps out of your beauty routine? Fantastic! Now, what about one that creates a winning trifecta with results, quick application and cost savings? Yep, those are the makings of a hot seller.

Pop quiz! Question 1: Which is the body’s largest organ? The skin, so you’d better take care of it. It’s one of the first places to show that something’s not quite right with the body, like needing more sleep, more water or less time in the sun. So, take a few minutes and learn some tips from companies specializing in natural skincare and haircare.

Everyone wants healthy, beautiful hair, but traditional hair care products contain strange chemicals (what is “methylisothiazolinone”?) that don’t take care of hair at all! Your customers are looking instead for natural ingredients to cleanse their scalps and nourish their hair. Let’s discuss some oils and herbs that can replace harsh chemicals in shampoos and conditioners to nurture your clients’ hair and even help it thrive!

Pick up a tube of toothpaste and read the label. If you find ingredients you can’t pronounce, take caution. While brushing is a healthy habit that contributes to one’s overall wellbeing, some ingredients found in traditional products may do more harm than good.

Demand for natural products is as strong as ever, according to data collected in the 36th Annual WholeFoods Retailer Survey. Independent stores that participated in this year’s survey had a strong showing in 2013, selling a combined $741 million throughout their more than 1.24 million ft2 of total retail space. Most stores reported gains this year, and businesses are optimistic about the outlook for 2014, all excellent news for those who value the expertise and unique flavor that independent stores contribute to the natural and organic supplements, grocery, HABA and home products industries.

In the natural realm, keeping up appearances isn’t about covering up. It’s about supporting the external with vital nutrients so that healthy, glowing skin, shiny hair and strong nails show through. Here’s everything you need to know about three hot and growing products categories that aim to do just that.

If I told you that there’s a growing product category that can protect the longevity and vitality of skin, promote skin cells’ ability to regenerate, delay the biological aging of essential skin cells and preserve a youthful look, you’d say I was crazy, right? Well, I’m not; plant stem cells can do just that.